Introduction to Professional Psychology (Psy.D. Clinical Consultation Group) PSY 6543 Fall and Spring Semesters 2009-2010 Term and Year: Fall 2009 and Spring 2010 Class location: One Beach Street, San Francisco, Room 119 Class Meeting days and time(s): Monday, 10:10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Instructor Name and Title: Patrick Petti, Ph.D., Assistant Professor Office location: SF Campus, Room 272. Email address: ppetti@alliant.edu. Phone: 415-955-2160 Office Hours:Mondays 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Fridays 1:00 – 3:00 pm, and by appointment Grading: Credit/No Credit Credit hours: 0 credits per semester
I. Course Rationale: The PsyD and Ph.D. clinical psychology programs are organized to enable students to build sequentially on knowledge and skills. This course is part of the PsyD. Curriculum. Each practicum experience is complimented by a didactic course for the purposes of accomplishing this integration. The first year Introduction to Professional Psychology course is the didactic course that accompanies the Psy.D. G-1 practicum experience. In this course students learn basic skills in becoming a professional psychologist and receive advising and mentorship from faculty instructors. Each course in the PsyD and PhD program is designed to accomplish program specific learning outcomes (or training goals and objectives).This course is related to the outcome of developing graduates who practice professional attitudes, values and beliefs as career-long objectives. Knowledge of psychology as a profession will be addressed along with professional values such as responsibility, integrity and commitment that are fundamental to the formation of competent, professional psychologists. II. Course Description, Purpose, Student Learning Outcomes and Assessment: Course Description This is a year long consultation group in professional development which combines an introduction to the discipline and professional practice of psychology as exemplified in the practitioner training program leading to the Psy.D. Degree at CSPP-SF.Taken concurrently with the Psy.D. Practicum I by first-year clinical Psy.D. students, this seminar provides a small group format for discussion of current issues that arise in their graduate studies at CSPP-SF and at their practicum placement.Field placement matching issues, library research, dissertation matching and general introduction to professional roles and responsibilities will also be covered.Particular emphasis is placed on developing professional behaviors and attitudes.An emphasis is also placed on how students can prepare themselves for changing roles in professional psychology and for developing multicultural competence in those roles. B. Purpose of the Course The purpose of this course is to give an overview of professional issues in the context of doctor education and training. Thus, in addition to developing skills in professional behavior and attitudes, students will develop knowledge of various professional roles and responsibilities consistent with the practice of psychology. In this regard, students will obtain specific knowledge regarding general ethical issues, building professional relationships and developing one’s professional personae. C. Specific Learning Outcomes: Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: 1.Make a successful transition from undergraduate studies or work experience to graduate studies at CSPP- SF PsyD Program. 2.Prepare applications materials (curriculum vitae, letters of interest and letters of recommendation) in order to apply for and accept a PsyD Practicum I placement consistent with their professional goals and training needs. 3.Create an open learning environment to facilitate the organization and management of their graduate studies in the Psy.D. Program. 4.Increase understanding of conducting online library research, specify research interests and successfully match for a dissertation advisor in their area. 5.Identify legal issues relevant to professional practice
Understand and apply CSPP-SF’s mission to emphasize sensitivity to multicultural and international perspectives in professional psychology.
7.Develop greater understanding of the broad range of expanding roles for professional psychologists. D. Instructional Strategy This course format mainly involves student discussion regarding their professional development.In addition, lecture, discussion, reading and presentations are arranged to promote the development of professional attitudes. Classes will typically begin with discussion and problem solving related to students’ Psy.D. I practicum experiences and issues related to meeting the requirements of the Psy.D. program. The remainder of class will typically involve lectures on various clinical and professional topics and case presentations on clients served in practica settings. Students will be given a thorough introduction to the on-line library resources of the university and may use the web to access some of the course readings and materials.Some DVD/video presentations may be used to illustrate problems and solutions regarding professional issues and to serve as focal points for discussion. E. Description of Course Requirements and Assessment Methods Students will be evaluated on a Credit/No Credit basis using the criteria outlined in course requirements.In addition, more subjective factors such as personal growth and professionalism will be evaluated.Student learning will be assessed through the following methods: 1.Regular, on-time class attendance is required.If you are unable to attend a class, please leave me a message on my voice mail.Students who are consistently late or who miss more than two classes in a given semester risk receiving “no credit” for the class 2.Class participation is a vital component of the class.In addition to asking questions regarding material presented, it is expected that you contribute your own ideas, suggestions and formulations. For those students who would be disadvantaged by grading on the basis of group participation, three typed one page reaction papers on professional issues may be substituted 3.Demonstration of professional attitudes and behaviors as indicated by conduct at field placement, management of personal stress related to first year graduate work, and knowledge of professional roles and responsibilities. 4.Assigned readings are required throughout the year.Students are expected to generate a discussion of ideas regarding these readings with particular emphasis on how these concepts apply to their clinical work and professional development. 5.Students are required to prepare a formal C.V. according to the Office of Professional Training guidelines for their Practicum I placement and to revise the vita for the "matching process" for January, 2009. 6.Students will be required to present verbal reports on the nature of the Practicum experience that emphasizes the mission, goals and objectives of their agency and the student’s role in furthering this mission. Students should also present how the organizational structure of the agency facilitates the services rendered. III. Course Readings and Materials: Required Readings: Matthews, J.R. and Walker, C.E. (2006). Your practicum in psychology: A guide for maximizing knowledge and competence.Washington DC: American Psychological Association. Recommended Readings: Plante, Thomas, G. (2005). Contemporary Clinical Psychology (2nd Edition). Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons Inc. A Resource Guide has been prepared for students with required readings that may be assigned as the Consultation Group progresses. The Resource Guide is meant to facilitate the student’s learning in the context of the five objectives of the consultation group and is available on reserve in the library. It is also recommended that class members read the following periodicals regularly (some are available on line in full text format, and all are available in the library or by subscription): American Psychologist (full text available online) APA Monitor California Psychologist (a publication of CPA) Professional Psychology: Research and Practice (full text available on online) IV. Policies and Procedures: Behavioral Expectations/Attendance 1.Policies Related To Class Attendance, Lateness, Missed Exams or Assignments The University expects regular class attendance by all students.Each student is responsible for all academic work missed during absences.When an absence is necessary, students should contact the instructor beforehand as courtesy and to check for assignments.See the University Catalog for the complete policy on attendance.Attendance criteria for this class include the following: If you miss more than 2 classes this semester, it will result in the assignment of an extensive paper: missing 3 or more classes may result in an “F,” even if you have performed well in other dimension of the class. If you are more than 10 minutes late for class, or in returning from break, it counts as missing half of a class period. Attendance is a basic requirement. Missed assignments will result in a lower grade or failing grade for the class, depending on the work missed and is determined at the discretion of the instructor. If, however, you are ill and provide a doctor’s note, the assignment can be made up. Contract the instructor as soon as possible if you learn you will be missing a course requirement. 2.Information on types of participation required by the course:Regular focus, attention and participation in class are expected. However, cultural differences in participation levels are understood. Thus, students who choose to participate less can earn points that would ordinarily be given for participation through short reaction papers on three topics in professional psychology of their choosing. 3.Instructor Assumptions First and foremost, it is essential that an atmosphere of mutual respect and support is maintained throughout the year.Professional development is a developmental process involving different struggles for students at different levels of understanding. We will strive to develop a non-judgmental attitude in class in order to facilitate personal as well as intellectual development 4.Responsibility to Keep Copies Remember – it is good practice to keep copies of ALL major assignments/papers you turn in.On rare occasions, work may be lost because of computer failure or other mishaps. 5.Respectful Speech and Actions Alliant International University, by mission and practice, is committed to fair and respectful consideration of all members of our community, and the greater communities surrounding us.All members of the University must treat one another as they would wish to be treated themselves, with dignity and concern. As an institution of higher education, Alliant International University has the obligation to combat racism, sexism, and other forms of bias and to provide an equal educational opportunity. Professional codes of ethics (e.g., from the APA for psychology students) and the Academic Code shall be the guiding principles in dealing with speech or actions that, when considered objectively, are abusive and insulting. 6.Academic Code of Conduct and Ethics The University is committed to principles of scholastic honesty.Its members are expected to abide by ethical standards both in their conduct and in their exercise of responsibility towards other members of the community.Each student’s conduct is expected to be in accordance with the standards of the University.The complete Academic Code, which covers acts of misconduct including assistance during examination, fabrication of data, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, and assisting other students in acts of misconduct, among others, may be found in the University Catalog.The University reserves the right to use plagiarism detection software. Confidentiality of classmates should also be maintained.Personal feelings and other interpersonal issues discussed in relation to course material and case presentations are expected to emerge as part of professional development.These discussions should not be shared outside of the classroom 7.Disability Accommodations Request If you need disability-related accommodations in this class, please see the instructor.All accommodations must be requested in a timely manner (at least 2 weeks ahead of time) with a letter of support for Alliant’s Office of Disability Services.If you have questions about accommodations, please contact the Office of Disability Services (Dr. Nina Ghiselli; nghiselli@alliant.edu).
8.Policy on Course Requirements During Religious Holidays Alliant International University does not officially observe any religious holidays.However, in keeping with the institution’s commitment to issues of cultural diversity as well as humanitarian considerations, faculty are encouraged to appreciate students’ religious observances by not penalizing them when they are absent from classes on holy days.Alliant International University faculty will be sensitive to these matters.Students should be similarly respectful of faculty members’ right to observe religious days. 9.Resources for Obtaining Tutoring or Other Student Support Services Tutors are available to help students with course-based or exam-based needs.Contact the Director of Student Support Services for information on obtaining tutoring – or other student support services – on the San Francisco campus. 10.Problem Solving Resources If problems arise with faculty, other students, staff, or student support services, students should use the University Problem Solving Procedures located on the web at http://www.alliant.edu/academic/studentproblemsolving/Student_Grievance_Policy.pdf or contact the University Ombudsperson at rkunard@alliant.edu. V.Course Schedule: Reminder that Syllabus is Subject to Change The following is the general structure and content of the course.Students should remember that the exact content and schedule of the syllabus is subject to change without prior notice to meet student, faculty, or other needs.We may spend more time on some topics as needed, and conversely, may move more quickly over other topics. Fall Semester September Week 1 Orientation to Psy.D. Practicum I Selection Developing a resume and cover letter Week 2 Follow up on PsyD Practicum I matching Review of Interview Techniques Week 3 Orientation to Online Library Resources The Psy.D. degree, professional developmentand career goal setting Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 1: Week 4 The Professional Behavior of a Psychologist Multicultural Competency Utilizing Supervision Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 2: Week 5 Issues in Beginning Treatment with Children Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 10: Week 6 Preparing resumes and cover letters for the G2 Practicum placement Interviewing for placements and case presentation skills Week 7 Developing a Therapeutic Relationship Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 3: Week 8 Individual meetings with instructor as needed Spring Semester Week 1 Orientation to second semester requirements of PsyD Program Revision of CV and Cover Letters for Practicum Matching Preparing for PsyD Practicum I matching Week 2 Follow up on PsyD Practicum I matching Review of Interview Techniques Case Presentation Skills Week 3 Confidentiality, Boundaries and Other Ethical Issues Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 4: APA Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct Week 4 Choosing a Dissertation Topic Writing a Dissertation Week 5 Theory and Technique Introduction to Understanding Psychopathology Empirically Validated Treatments Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 6 & 8: Week 6 Professional Development Issues Continued: Psychological Assessment Use of Medication in Psychological Treatment Required Readings: Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 7 & 9: Week 7 Termination Issues Balancing Career and Family Professions in Mental Health Required Readings: Your practicum in psychology - Chapter 11: Week 8 Individual meetings with instructor as needed
(Psy.D. Clinical Consultation Group)
PSY 6543
Fall and Spring Semesters 2009-2010
Term and Year: Fall 2009 and Spring 2010
Class location: One Beach Street, San Francisco, Room 119
Class Meeting days and time(s): Monday, 10:10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Instructor Name and Title: Patrick Petti, Ph.D., Assistant Professor
Office location: SF Campus, Room 272.
Email address: ppetti@alliant.edu.
Phone: 415-955-2160
Office Hours: Mondays 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Fridays 1:00 – 3:00 pm, and by appointment
Grading: Credit/No Credit
Credit hours: 0 credits per semester
I. Course Rationale:
The PsyD and Ph.D. clinical psychology programs are organized to enable students to build sequentially on knowledge and skills. This course is part of the PsyD. Curriculum. Each practicum experience is complimented by a didactic course for the purposes of accomplishing this integration. The first year Introduction to Professional Psychology course is the didactic course that accompanies the Psy.D. G-1 practicum experience. In this course students learn basic skills in becoming a professional psychologist and receive advising and mentorship from faculty instructors.
Each course in the PsyD and PhD program is designed to accomplish program specific learning outcomes (or training goals and objectives). This course is related to the outcome of developing graduates who practice professional attitudes, values and beliefs as career-long objectives. Knowledge of psychology as a profession will be addressed along with professional values such as responsibility, integrity and commitment that are fundamental to the formation of competent, professional psychologists.
II. Course Description, Purpose, Student Learning Outcomes and Assessment:
Course Description
This is a year long consultation group in professional development which combines an introduction to the discipline and professional practice of psychology as exemplified in the practitioner training program leading to the Psy.D. Degree at CSPP-SF. Taken concurrently with the Psy.D. Practicum I by first-year clinical Psy.D. students, this seminar provides a small group format for discussion of current issues that arise in their graduate studies at CSPP-SF and at their practicum placement. Field placement matching issues, library research, dissertation matching and general introduction to professional roles and responsibilities will also be covered. Particular emphasis is placed on developing professional behaviors and attitudes. An emphasis is also placed on how students can prepare themselves for changing roles in professional psychology and for developing multicultural competence in those roles.
B. Purpose of the Course
The purpose of this course is to give an overview of professional issues in the context of doctor education and training. Thus, in addition to developing skills in professional behavior and attitudes, students will develop knowledge of various professional roles and responsibilities consistent with the practice of psychology. In this regard, students will obtain specific knowledge regarding general ethical issues, building professional relationships and developing one’s professional personae.
C. Specific Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
1. Make a successful transition from undergraduate studies or work experience to graduate studies at CSPP- SF PsyD Program.
2. Prepare applications materials (curriculum vitae, letters of interest and letters of recommendation) in order to apply for and accept a PsyD Practicum I placement consistent with their professional goals and training needs.
3. Create an open learning environment to facilitate the organization and management of their graduate studies in the Psy.D. Program.
4. Increase understanding of conducting online library research, specify research interests and successfully match for a dissertation advisor in their area.
5. Identify legal issues relevant to professional practice
- Understand and apply CSPP-SF’s mission to emphasize sensitivity to multicultural and international perspectives in professional psychology.
7. Develop greater understanding of the broad range of expanding roles for professional psychologists.D. Instructional Strategy
This course format mainly involves student discussion regarding their professional development. In addition, lecture, discussion, reading and presentations are arranged to promote the development of professional attitudes. Classes will typically begin with discussion and problem solving related to students’ Psy.D. I practicum experiences and issues related to meeting the requirements of the Psy.D. program. The remainder of class will typically involve lectures on various clinical and professional topics and case presentations on clients served in practica settings. Students will be given a thorough introduction to the on-line library resources of the university and may use the web to access some of the course readings and materials. Some DVD/video presentations may be used to illustrate problems and solutions regarding professional issues and to serve as focal points for discussion.
E. Description of Course Requirements and Assessment Methods
Students will be evaluated on a Credit/No Credit basis using the criteria outlined in course requirements. In addition, more subjective factors such as personal growth and professionalism will be evaluated. Student learning will be assessed through the following methods:
1. Regular, on-time class attendance is required. If you are unable to attend a class, please leave me a message on my voice mail. Students who are consistently late or who miss more than two classes in a given semester risk receiving “no credit” for the class
2. Class participation is a vital component of the class. In addition to asking questions regarding material presented, it is expected that you contribute your own ideas, suggestions and formulations. For those students who would be disadvantaged by grading on the basis of group participation, three typed one page reaction papers on professional issues may be substituted
3. Demonstration of professional attitudes and behaviors as indicated by conduct at field placement, management of personal stress related to first year graduate work, and knowledge of professional roles and responsibilities.
4. Assigned readings are required throughout the year. Students are expected to generate a discussion of ideas regarding these readings with particular emphasis on how these concepts apply to their clinical work and professional development.
5. Students are required to prepare a formal C.V. according to the Office of Professional Training guidelines for their Practicum I placement and to revise the vita for the "matching process" for January, 2009.
6. Students will be required to present verbal reports on the nature of the Practicum experience that emphasizes the mission, goals and objectives of their agency and the student’s role in furthering this mission. Students should also present how the organizational structure of the agency facilitates the services rendered.
III. Course Readings and Materials:
Required Readings:
Matthews, J.R. and Walker, C.E. (2006). Your practicum in psychology: A guide for maximizing knowledge and competence. Washington DC: American Psychological Association.
Recommended Readings:
Plante, Thomas, G. (2005). Contemporary Clinical Psychology (2nd Edition). Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons Inc.
A Resource Guide has been prepared for students with required readings that may be assigned as the Consultation Group progresses. The Resource Guide is meant to facilitate the student’s learning in the context of the five objectives of the consultation group and is available on reserve in the library.
It is also recommended that class members read the following periodicals regularly (some are available on line in full text format, and all are available in the library or by subscription):
American Psychologist (full text available online)
APA Monitor
California Psychologist (a publication of CPA)
Professional Psychology: Research and Practice (full text available on online)
IV. Policies and Procedures:
Behavioral Expectations/Attendance
1. Policies Related To Class Attendance, Lateness, Missed Exams or Assignments
The University expects regular class attendance by all students. Each student is responsible for all academic work missed during absences. When an absence is necessary, students should contact the instructor beforehand as courtesy and to check for assignments. See the University Catalog for the complete policy on attendance. Attendance criteria for this class include the following: If you miss more than 2 classes this semester, it will result in the assignment of an extensive paper: missing 3 or more classes may result in an “F,” even if you have performed well in other dimension of the class. If you are more than 10 minutes late for class, or in returning from break, it counts as missing half of a class period. Attendance is a basic requirement.
Missed assignments will result in a lower grade or failing grade for the class, depending on the work missed and is determined at the discretion of the instructor. If, however, you are ill and provide a doctor’s note, the assignment can be made up. Contract the instructor as soon as possible if you learn you will be missing a course requirement.
2. Information on types of participation required by the course: Regular focus, attention and participation in class are expected. However, cultural differences in
participation levels are understood. Thus, students who choose to participate less can earn points that would ordinarily be given for participation through short reaction papers on three topics in professional psychology of their choosing.
3. Instructor Assumptions
First and foremost, it is essential that an atmosphere of mutual respect and support is maintained throughout the year. Professional development is a developmental process involving different struggles for students at different levels of understanding. We will strive to develop a non-judgmental attitude in class in order to facilitate personal as well as intellectual development
4. Responsibility to Keep Copies
Remember – it is good practice to keep copies of ALL major assignments/papers you turn in. On rare occasions, work may be lost because of computer failure or other mishaps.
5. Respectful Speech and Actions
Alliant International University, by mission and practice, is committed to fair and respectful consideration of all members of our community, and the greater communities surrounding us. All members of the University must treat one another as they would wish to be treated themselves, with dignity and concern.
As an institution of higher education, Alliant International University has the obligation to combat racism, sexism, and other forms of bias and to provide an equal educational opportunity. Professional codes of ethics (e.g., from the APA for psychology students) and the Academic Code shall be the guiding principles in dealing with speech or actions that, when considered objectively, are abusive and insulting.
6. Academic Code of Conduct and Ethics
The University is committed to principles of scholastic honesty. Its members are expected to abide by ethical standards both in their conduct and in their exercise of responsibility towards other members of the community. Each student’s conduct is expected to be in accordance with the standards of the University. The complete Academic Code, which covers acts of misconduct including assistance during examination, fabrication of data, plagiarism, unauthorized collaboration, and assisting other students in acts of misconduct, among others, may be found in the University Catalog. The University reserves the right to use plagiarism detection software.
Confidentiality of classmates should also be maintained. Personal feelings and other interpersonal issues discussed in relation to course material and case presentations are expected to emerge as part of professional development. These discussions should not be shared outside of the classroom
7. Disability Accommodations Request
If you need disability-related accommodations in this class, please see the instructor. All accommodations must be requested in a timely manner (at least 2 weeks ahead of time) with a letter of support for Alliant’s Office of Disability Services. If you have questions about accommodations, please contact the Office of Disability Services (Dr. Nina Ghiselli; nghiselli@alliant.edu).
8. Policy on Course Requirements During Religious Holidays
Alliant International University does not officially observe any religious holidays. However, in keeping with the institution’s commitment to issues of cultural diversity as well as humanitarian considerations, faculty are encouraged to appreciate students’ religious observances by not penalizing them when they are absent from classes on holy days. Alliant International University faculty will be sensitive to these matters. Students should be similarly respectful of faculty members’ right to observe religious days.
9. Resources for Obtaining Tutoring or Other Student Support Services
Tutors are available to help students with course-based or exam-based needs. Contact the Director of Student Support Services for information on obtaining tutoring – or other student support services – on the San Francisco campus.
10. Problem Solving Resources
If problems arise with faculty, other students, staff, or student support services, students should use the University Problem Solving Procedures located on the web at http://www.alliant.edu/academic/studentproblemsolving/Student_Grievance_Policy.pdf or contact the University Ombudsperson at rkunard@alliant.edu.
V. Course Schedule:
Reminder that Syllabus is Subject to Change
The following is the general structure and content of the course. Students should remember that the exact content and schedule of the syllabus is subject to change without prior notice to meet student, faculty, or other needs. We may spend more time on some topics as needed, and conversely, may move more quickly over other topics.
Fall Semester
September
Week 1
Orientation to Psy.D. Practicum I Selection
Developing a resume and cover letter
Week 2
Follow up on PsyD Practicum I matching
Review of Interview Techniques
Week 3
Orientation to Online Library Resources
The Psy.D. degree, professional development and career goal setting
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 1:
Week 4
The Professional Behavior of a Psychologist
Multicultural Competency
Utilizing Supervision
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 2:
Week 5
Issues in Beginning Treatment with Children
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 10:
Week 6
Preparing resumes and cover letters for the G2 Practicum placement
Interviewing for placements and case presentation skills
Week 7
Developing a Therapeutic Relationship
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 3:
Week 8
Individual meetings with instructor as needed
Spring Semester
Week 1
Orientation to second semester requirements of PsyD Program
Revision of CV and Cover Letters for Practicum Matching
Preparing for PsyD Practicum I matching
Week 2
Follow up on PsyD Practicum I matching
Review of Interview Techniques
Case Presentation Skills
Week 3
Confidentiality, Boundaries and Other Ethical Issues
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 4:
APA Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct
Week 4
Choosing a Dissertation Topic
Writing a Dissertation
Week 5
Theory and Technique
Introduction to Understanding Psychopathology
Empirically Validated Treatments
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 6 & 8:
Week 6
Professional Development Issues Continued:
Psychological Assessment
Use of Medication in Psychological Treatment
Required Readings:
Your Practicum in Psychology - Chapter 7 & 9:
Week 7
Termination Issues
Balancing Career and Family
Professions in Mental Health
Required Readings:
Your practicum in psychology - Chapter 11:
Week 8
Individual meetings with instructor as needed